Can Water Be Used as a Substitute for Engine Coolant?
2 Answers
Coolant cannot be replaced with water. If water is used as a substitute for coolant, it is highly prone to boiling, which can affect the normal operation of the engine. Coolant Replacement Interval: For regular household vehicles, it is recommended to replace the coolant every two years. Coolant is an essential liquid in the engine cooling system. If the coolant is not replaced for a long time, it will reduce the cooling system's heat dissipation efficiency, and poor heat dissipation will negatively impact the engine's normal operation. Functions of Coolant: Coolant protects the engine cooling system from rust and corrosion, effectively inhibits scale formation, prevents the radiator from overheating, reduces coolant evaporation, and provides lubrication for components such as the water pump and thermostat.
I've been repairing cars for twenty years and have seen too many car owners coming for help because they used water instead of coolant. Coolant isn't just water—it contains special additives to prevent boiling points from being too high or too low, and it also prevents rust and corrosion. Using pure water can cause rust inside the engine, may lead to boiling and bursting in summer, and is prone to freezing and cracking in winter, especially in areas with large temperature differences. Long-term use like this will accelerate the aging of the radiator and engine components, making repairs costly and dangerous. Once, a customer who added tap water had their engine rust severely in less than six months, costing thousands to replace new parts. If you really want to save money on coolant, it's better to choose a cheaper brand, but water is absolutely not an option. In an emergency, adding water temporarily is acceptable, but you should go to a shop as soon as possible to replace it with proper coolant.
